First published: 19 September 2022 @ 6:00 pm
Power struggles between parents and children can result from how parents ask for things. They should simply ask for what they want and get their child’s agreement to do it.
In this article, we will cover the 5 most effective ways to get your kids to do things they don’t want to do.
5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Do Things They Don’t Want To Do
1. Be Polite
Acknowledge the fact that your child is in control of his or her body and will not always want to do what you ask them to do.
Your child is always in control of their own body, so you must be respectful and acknowledge that he or she may say no or otherwise.
Make sure that you are respectful about how you speak about the issue and avoid being overly aggressive in demanding what you want from your child.
Also, never use threats or ultimatums when asking for something from your child, as this will most likely backfire on you when your child decides not to comply with your request, anyway.
Finally, always ask if there is anything else that they would like you to know before they give an answer, as well as saying thank you when they comply with your request.
2. Praise Their Efforts
If your child works hard on something that they don’t want to do, then make sure that you show them your appreciation.
Your child will always want to be praised for their efforts, and they will be more likely to comply with your request if you are praising them for their efforts.
For example, if your child works hard to clean their room, then tell them how good they did by saying something like “You worked really hard cleaning your room!”
If you don’t compliment them, then they will probably not feel appreciated for the effort that they put into cleaning their room.
Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.
3. Make Your Requests Clear
Another effective way to get your child to do things they don’t want to do is by making your requests clear.
For example, if you want your child to pick up their toys from the floor, then make sure that you tell them exactly what you want them to do and say.
It is much easier for children to comply with your request if they know exactly what you are asking them to do.
This will also prevent any confusion or misunderstanding and any arguments that may arise.
4. Let Them Choose
If you ask your child if they would like to do something and they say no, then let them choose for themselves whether they would like to do it.
Letting your child choose for themselves is great for showing respect for their decision and making sure that they are not being forced into doing something that they don’t want to do.
It is also great for ensuring that your child has some freedom in how he or she spends their time.
You are also being respectful of their opinion and decision when it comes down to deciding whether they would like something.
5. Give Them Some Time To Think
Another effective way to get your child to do things they don’t want to do is by giving them some time to think about it.
If you tell your child that you would like them to do something, then make sure that you give them some time to think about it before they give you an answer.
This will allow your child to come up with a solution on their own. It will also give them the opportunity to make an informed decision and being respectful of their own opinion.
Your child will be more likely to comply with your request if they have given themselves enough time to think about it.
The Final Thought
If you are having a hard time getting your kids to do things they don’t want to do, then try asking for what you want politely, giving them some time to think about the request, letting them choose for themselves, and giving them some praise when they comply with your request.
Our blog, Mature Parent, covers a variety of topics that relate to parenting and child care. Our goal is to help parents raise happy, healthy children who have strong self-esteem and growth mindsets.
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